Zoning commission adopts Pennsylvania Avenue East neighborhood mixed-use zone

The Zoning Commission voted 4-0-1 to approve the Office of Planning’s map and text amendment to create a Pennsylvania Avenue East neighborhood mixed-use zone (NMU‑5A/PAE), concluding a rulemaking process that culminated in proposed action taken at a February 20, 2025 public hearing.

Office of Planning staff told the commission that the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) reviewed the proposal and filed a comment stating the amendments were “not inconsistent with the comp plan for the national capital.” The notice of proposed rulemaking was published in the District of Columbia Register on May 16; staff reported no public comments to the proposed rulemaking during the rulemaking period.

Commissioners said the zone reflected extensive community outreach and adopted recommendations in the Pennsylvania Avenue East small area plan and related advisory council comments. “Due to the outreach and due to coordination, I think…this meets our requirements,” Chairman Anthony Hood said. Commissioner Imamura added that IZ Plus should apply to the amendment, and Commissioner Wright and Vice Chair Miller said they were prepared to support the final action.

Commissioner Seymour moved adoption and the motion was seconded; the commission approved final action on Zoning Commission Case No. 24‑10 by roll call vote. Commissioner Stidham was not present. The new zone will be incorporated into the zoning map and published according to standard Office of Zoning procedures.

The Office of Planning’s report and NCPC review are in the administrative record; the Office of Zoning will issue a notice with the final zoning text and map updates.